Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
Master of Science in Tourism Management, Farabi College, University of Tehran, Qom, Iran
2
Professor, Department of Physical Geography, Mohaghegh Ardabili University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
3
M.Sc. in Ecotourism, Mohaghegh Ardabili University, Faculty of Social Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
10.22059/jtcp.2025.402886.670523
Abstract
Geotourism, as a key branch of sustainable tourism, supports geoheritage conservation and enhances public geoliteracy. This study quantitatively assesses geotourism potential for three representative geomorphosites in Ardabil Province (Heyran Pass, Neor Lake, and Verge-Saran Bridge). Data were collected through documentary review, field observations, and secondary analysis. Two established models were applied: Comănescu (evaluating scientific, aesthetic, cultural, economic, and management values) and Serrano–González Trueba (focusing on intrinsic–scientific, cultural, and functional–management values). Results indicate that Heyran Pass achieved the highest scores in both models (70 in Comănescu; 20.9 in Serrano), whereas Neor Lake ranked lowest due to access and management constraints. The convergence of rankings across models strengthens the reliability of the prioritization and informs the design of spatial and managerial policies. Based on the findings, we recommend, beyond infrastructure improvement, interpretive programs, carrying-capacity management, and protective–operational zoning, particularly for lower-scoring areas, to align geotourism development with sustainability principles.
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